RCCG SUNDAY SCHOOL STUDENTS’ MANUAL 6 NOVEMBER 2022

LESSON TEN (10)
TOPIC: CHRISTIANS AND POLITICS (PART 2)

SUNDAY SCHOOL HYMN

1. O Sunday School, on the Lord’s day,

O how I love Thee well,

I am happy, it makes me glad

To rejoice at Thy birth.

2. O Sunday School, on the Lord’s day,

Thy friendship suits me well,

Both young and will sing Thy song,

We long for Sunday School.

3. O Sunday School, on the Lord’s day,

Christ was Thy first teacher,

The Holy Spirit, great teacher,

Does manifest in thee.

4. O Sunday School, on the Lord’s day,

This testimony is sure,

That God, the Father Almighty,

Poured His blessings on me

5. O Sunday School, on the Lord’s day,

Though the sun be so bright,

Or if the clouds be black with rain,

I’ll be in Sunday School.

6. O Sunday School, on the Lord’s day,

I rejoice to see Thee,

Will thou pass over me today?

Without my being blest?

BIBLE PASSAGE: 2 Samuel 23:1-4.

MEMORY VERSE: “The God of Israel said, the Rock of Israel spake to me, He that ruleth over men must be just, ruling in the fear of God.” 2 Samuel 23:3.

INTRODUCTION: In our previous lesson, we highlighted some misconceptions held by some Christians in some circles. We also examined some of the reasons Christians should be involved in politics from the biblical perspective. In today’s lesson, we shall attempt to guide Christians with genuine intentions on how to be practically involved in politics and avoid pitfalls.

OUTLINES:

1. HOW TO BE INVOLVED IN POLITICS

2. THINGS TO WATCH OUT FOR IN POLITICS

1. HOW TO BE INVOLVED IN POLITICS

Christians should note that it is their civic right and responsibility under the law (Tit.3:1, 1 Pet.2:13-14) to vote and be voted for (Deut.1:13). T

herefore, every eligible Christian should register with the relevant electoral body in order to participate during elections. In addition, it is important for Christians to be ‘card-carrying’ members of any political party of preference. By so doing, Christians can contest and be voted into elective positions or influence the choice of their representatives for elective positions (Ex.18:21).

To join a political party, you need to get information. Visit the websites of the parties available in your country or the respective party secretariat within your locality. Go through their detailed profiles to know the party’s ideology and manifesto. Fill out a party registration form and provide supporting documents/payments as may be required. A membership card will be issued to you as confirmation. Attend party meetings regularly and actively to be a voice to be reckoned with.

Christians aspiring for elective leadership positions should be sure to have a leading, burden or passion to serve the people and solve problems (1Sam.17:29; 34-37, Neh.2:1-5).

To succeed in politics, Christians should read books and attend seminars/conferences on leadership/politics (Prov.16:16). It is also important to be mentored by a seasoned Christian political leader (Prov.1:5; 11:14).

Christians may also prayerfully join or support an advocacy group (Est.4:8, 13-14) or form a political party with people of like-minds (1Sam 22:2, Dan.2:49).

CLASS ACTIVITY 1: Do we need money to form a political party or to be actively involved in politics? Why or why not?

2. THINGS TO WATCH OUT FOR IN POLITICS

Christians who are into politics, or aspiring to hold political posts, should be prayerful and watch out for pitfalls to avoid soiling their garments (1Cor.15:33). They should, therefore:

1.Desist from any thought or act of wickedness. Politics is not a ‘do or die’ affair (Prov.16:12).

2.Avoid prayerlessness (Jam.5:16b-18, Ps. 91:15, Dan.6:10). Our adversary is not resting, be sober and vigilant (1 Pet.5:8).

3.Shun all foolishness: get the necessary qualifications or experience (Jam.1:5, 1Sam.17:34-37) and act wisely (Matt. 10:16).

4.Never dabble into politics without a godly burden or passion (Neh.2:1-5).

5.Avoid compromise: stand by your godly virtues and principles (1 Cor. 10:31).

6.Distinguish yourself and do not be hypocritical (1 Cor.6:17; Rom. 12:2).

7.Do not be lured into cultism or bad caucus in the name of ‘belonging,’ seeking relevance or power to outwit others (1 Cor.15:33).

8.Beware of the negative influence of political god-fathers (Prov.12:5; 25:26).

9.Be resolute in the face of persecution and propaganda. (Neh.4:3,6; Neh.6:5-7; Dan 6:11-14).

10.Avoid abuse of power. Do not be tyrannical (2 Chron. 26:16-18).

CLASS ACTIVITY 2: Why should Christians be prayerful in their political aspirations?

CONCLUSION: Join a political party today and be a Christian of influence.

QUESTIONS:

* Mention ways to be involved in politics.

* List five (5) things to watch out for in politics.

ASSIGNMENT: Mention ten (10) things you will do if you become a Governor. (No Mark).